Algeria faces an important test this Sunday as the Fennecs begin their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Kenya, raising the question of whether the team can transform its past disappointments into success. After a disappointing exit in the first round of the 2017 AFCON and missing out on the last World Cup, Algeria enters the tournament under coach Djamel Belmadi with renewed ambition and a clear sense of purpose.
Belmadi has revitalized the squad, instilling a style of play that combines attacking flair with defensive discipline. The Fennecs are now conceding fewer goals while maintaining an attractive, fluid approach in possession. Despite the presence of high-profile talents such as Riyad Mahrez, Baghdad Bounedjah, Aïssa Mandi, Yacine Brahimi, and Sofiane Feghouli, Belmadi remains humble about his team’s chances. “On paper, we are not the favorites. We were eliminated in the first round of the 2017 AFCON and we didn’t play in the last World Cup, which leads me to believe that we are just like any other team. Historically, Algeria is a footballing nation, that’s true. It’s up to us now to restore the prestige of Algerian football. We will play this match against Kenya with the firm intention of winning and thus getting off to a good start in the competition and getting into the swing of things,” he explained.
Kenya, appearing modest on paper, will rely heavily on their key player, Tottenham midfielder Victor Wanyama. Under French coach Sébastien Migné, who took charge in May 2018, the Harambee Stars have developed a strong sense of team cohesion and discipline. Migné stressed that his side would approach the match with freedom and without pressure, aiming to enjoy the occasion while showcasing their qualities. “We will play comfortably and without pressure because for us, this is an opportunity to enjoy the game. We will show our qualities and demonstrate that we are not in Egypt by chance, because we deserve our qualification. We will try to upset the Algerians because in football anything is possible,” he said.
The match promises a clash between Algeria’s talent and experience and Kenya’s determination and team spirit. While the Fennecs enter as favorites, the Harambee Stars are prepared to challenge them with energy and tactical discipline, seeking to make a statement in their first AFCON appearance of this edition.
Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM GMT at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium, where Riyad Mahrez will lead the Algerian attack. For Algeria, a strong start is vital to establish momentum in a group that they are expected to dominate. For Kenya, it is an opportunity to test themselves against one of Africa’s strongest teams and to demonstrate that their qualification was hard-earned. The stage is set for a match that could define both teams’ trajectories in the opening phase of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
